Top Critical Review

"The advanced technology was not ready for mainstream consumers"

Stephen»TX»2017 Mercedes-Benz E-ClassPurchased Jul 2016|Verified

Run! Do not walk away from this vehicle! The problems are too numerous to list. The advanced features are not reliable and require continued "software updates." The suspension is awful, makes loud clunking noises, and MBUSA is unable to fix the problems.

Updated on Oct 15, 2016

This vehicle is the biggest disappointment I have ever owned. The advanced technology was not ready for mainstream consumers! My car has been in the shop for more days than I've had it to drive. My car has been in service six times, and I've only made two payments on my vehicle! My car is currently in the shop, and it has been two weeks! And they still cannot find the source of the clunking noise in the front suspension.

Originally Reviewed on Sep 12, 2016

This car is a complete disappointment! I even asked the dealer if I could return it. The gauges are not convenient, (especially the gas gauge) The WiFi password can not be customized. The electronics have intermittent problems, that the dealer can't duplicate, even though I bring it in showing them it is not working. The keyless entry has issues even with the key in your hand. The lumbar adjustment needs to be on the seat, not in the infotainment system. The windshield wipers are too slow for Texas rain, they are dangerously slow even when set on high. The transmissiondownshifts so hard, you think you got rear ended.

"One reason I have loved these cars, among many, is my enjoyment taking long trips in them"

Joseph»NY»2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class|Purchased Sep 2016|Verified

I said there were two problems with the vehicle that I did not go to the dealer to get fixed. That is because they can't be fixed. The two problems were actually two general areas: The GPS and the Sound System.
This applies to both. The E300 is a new model in the E-Class, completely redesigned, following the E350s that we have leased 3 times. Every new model of the E350 reflected the dedication to improve and expand all driving functions, especially for me, the GPS and Sound System. It seems that the designers of this car did not know, or even take the slightest interest, absolutely not the slightest interest, in seeing what the GPS facilities and the Sound System facilities of the E350 were!!!
The GPS is entirely non-intuitive and cumbersome. You have to choose a special function to move your cursor position away from the map, and even then you can't easily explore. Even when you can see a map cutout of an "Intermediate Destination," you can't explore it or choose a more specific place to be saved for later.
And this among much else is UNBELIEVABLE: The Route Browser function is GONE!!! GONE!!! That was confirmed to me when I contacted the "i" button people and spent as much time with the agent, as much time as they needed, a lot, until they checked with a higher level who explained, confirmed what I had expected, that the feature was GONE. So now, to find out how the GPS wants to route me, I have to fool around with the map while I'm driving. The deletion of this feature is astonishing and profoundly DANGEROUS!!! That's not all, but how much do you need?
Next, the Sound System! I bring that up second because my greatest pleasure from my car is listening to music on long trips. Regarding the GPS, I know my routes pretty much already, but I must say that using the GPS to test alternate routes - because you can no longer explore the map conveniently - has become burdensome, no longer practical, and no longer the pleasure and source of great fun I had with all 3 generations of the E350 and the C350 before them. Now, on to the Sound System.
First of all - to say something that is nice - the quality of the Sound is nowhere short of amazing. Unfortunately, there is a gigantic BUT:
I can't tell if my problem comes from having the Executive model compared to the Sport, which may have had no attention paid to aerodynamic issues compared to the Sport. The problem with the wonderfully refined detailed quality of the sound is that those qualities are drowned out by the astonishingly loud cabin noise while driving even above 45 MPH. The less deluxe sound of the E350, excellent itself and loved by me through 3 generations, would have overcome the noise better. Now I have to raise the sound to unpleasant levels to hear my music through the noise. The sound is like having wind gusts blowing inside the car, not feeling any wind, but just hearing it. [Can you believe it? The noise level in the Chevy Malibu we recently rented is so much lower than in my E300 that people in the back seat can hear what's being said in the front.] That that would be a problem in a Mercedes, any Mercedes, changes credulity.
And that's just the least of it!
The car no longer has a CD/DVD player. That's fine with me because I am fine with SD cards and Thumb Drives.
But the Music Management System is virtually unusable! I have my music stored on my thumb drive using a nested directory structure. When I insert a thumb drive I have access to my directory structure, but that is only upon inserting the thumb drive. After that the directory structure is no longer available. I would have to remove the thumb drive and insert it back, to again see my directories. I am presented with the track number, whatever that might be, as number x/7400+. My drive has over 29 GB's on it, and climbing.
Not only that, on the one occasion I had access a directory of my choice, the player stopped at the last track and didn't go on to the next directory. In all E350s it did, and in the C350, I believe it did. Now I have to use my phone, or tricks I can use to fool the system to go where I want it to go. The tricks are cumbersome and involve having to search for a name out of all 7400+ tracks and selecting the area I want. The search function only looks for track names, so searching for directory names, which would make things infinitely easier, doesn't work.
So instead of being able to choose anything I might want to listen to from more music than you could listen to if you walked across the whole country, I have to prepare in advance, on my phone, what I might want to listen to on a 6+ hour trip,
or
pullover to the shoulder if I wanted to play something else, or fumble with my phone WHILE DRIVING to choose the music I wanted to listen to.
These shortcomings have also been confirmed by the "i" button people.
I had hoped that these problems might be addressed when I was told that the car's Operating System could be updated in this model, and that eventually I would be able to enjoy my new car, but I have since been told - I hope wrongly - the updates only apply to the GPS map.
I have owned a C350 and leased 3 E350s. One reason I have loved these cars, among many, is my enjoyment taking long trips in them. I can't consider these cars if I can't expect to enjoy my driving.

Originally Reviewed on Oct 28, 2016

Although the driving experience is dramatically improved over the already excellent E350, greater wind noise, above 55MPH, interferes with hearing the superb new sound system.
Unfortunately, my experience with the GPS and Music Management System, some shortcomings confirmed by contact with the help service, has been disheartening.
It seems that the program of improving the GPS and Music Management System that was wonderful in the E350 - the improvements that made me instantly forget that I didn't want to give up the previous 3 editions - has been abandoned for the E300. Instead of building on the E350, the E300 seems to be designed from scratch without regard for many of the outstanding facilities of the GPS and none of the facilities of the Music Management System. Now the GPS is primitive compared to the E350 and the Music Management System is simply useless. Imagine a directory structure that you can drill down into but not drill back up!
I understand that the car software can be upgraded on the fly and I am hoping that modifications will be made to bring these systems up the highest standards of Mercedes, that are usually the highest available In the world since Mercedes usually leads the world.

"Get the active seats, they make long trips a joy"

Dennis»OR»2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class|Purchased Sep 2016|Verified

Get the active seats, they make long trips a joy! Put two package hangers in the trunk, like my last Merc. Make a dealer digitial custom configuration set up for auto start/stop, transmission selection, etc.

Updated on Dec 9, 2016

Since the vehicle settings are all program settings, please make it possible for the dealership to personalize some things like the start-stop preference and transmission mode preferences and backup camera view to make them the owners default settings. It is just an annoyance, but it would be very easy to implement a firmware update program to get rid of those annoyances. And would you please program a button to turn on the cameras at low speeds without selecting reverse? Pretty Please? My previous E320 had two cargo hooks in the trunk, and I used both of them a lot. My custom ordered $70K E300 only has one cargo hook, and it sucks.

Originally Reviewed on Oct 28, 2016

I custom ordered my E300. Your option list groupings were terribly frustrating. I wanted a specific colorinterior, but couldn't get it with the other options I wanted. I wanted optional wheels but couldn't get them with the other options I wanted. I understand option groups are useful for manufacturing, but I was very displeased that wheels and interior options could not be freely selected. The pieces were clearly available on the assembly line, but they were not available on the order form.

"The advanced technology was not ready for mainstream consumers"

Stephen»TX»2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class|Purchased Jul 2016|Verified

Run! Do not walk away from this vehicle! The problems are too numerous to list. The advanced features are not reliable and require continued "software updates." The suspension is awful, makes loud clunking noises, and MBUSA is unable to fix the problems.

Updated on Oct 15, 2016

This vehicle is the biggest disappointment I have ever owned. The advanced technology was not ready for mainstream consumers! My car has been in the shop for more days than I've had it to drive. My car has been in service six times, and I've only made two payments on my vehicle! My car is currently in the shop, and it has been two weeks! And they still cannot find the source of the clunking noise in the front suspension.

Originally Reviewed on Sep 12, 2016

This car is a complete disappointment! I even asked the dealer if I could return it. The gauges are not convenient, (especially the gas gauge) The WiFi password can not be customized. The electronics have intermittent problems, that the dealer can't duplicate, even though I bring it in showing them it is not working. The keyless entry has issues even with the key in your hand. The lumbar adjustment needs to be on the seat, not in the infotainment system. The windshield wipers are too slow for Texas rain, they are dangerously slow even when set on high. The transmissiondownshifts so hard, you think you got rear ended.

"Nothing fancy and just one of the many white cars here in Florida"

Richard»FL»2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class|Purchased Sep 2016|Verified

I am disappointed in the interior design area of the console. This had always been one of the classiest parts of a Mercedes-Benz. In the past, the gearshift knob always matched the console and the panels of the interior. Now there's a black console with walnut wood trim throughout the panels. The black is an eyesore; it's like painting the trim on your home, and then in one area you change the color.
Secondly, I have always purchased the E-350 model, but now the E-350 has been downgraded to the E-300. It carries the same designation as the C-300 model—why the change? Also, 60 HP has been taken away, compared with the prior model, and the engine has been reduced from six to four cylinders. Even though the power seems to be close to the former six-cylinder, it is again a reduction for the sake of cost savings.
Lastly, there isn't much of a selection for the exterior paint and interior color patterns. My first two E-Class cars had an exterior color of Pearl Beige, a rich and dynamic color and one that I received many compliments on. That color has now been discontinued, and my last two purchases have been Pearl White. Nothing fancy and just one of the many white cars here in Florida.

"The E300 exceeded my expectations"

Majid»AZ»2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class|Purchased Jul 2016|Verified

The E-Class is a perfect blend of fun and function. A true car guy's car, but has enough comfort features that enhance your productivity and driving experience. I love the on-demand power of four different driving modes allowing me to shift from Economy to Sport (+) so I can customize the driving experience to how I am feeling that day. More important, as a busy manager, I love all the connectively features and quietness of the ride which allows me to be so productive on the road. Apple CarPlay is amazing. Finally, first and foremost I am a family man; I love how I can drive all three of my children in the back, my wife by my side, and run errands or go to kids sporting events. The trunk is huge. This is the perfect car. Yes, Mercedes marketing are targeting the segment of snobby and boring, while Audi and BMW are eating their lunch. The latest Formula One domination by Mercedes clearly proved that Mercedes is a force to reckon with in the automotive sport. I would love to see more marketing campaigns that highlight the driving experience of Mercedes. I would like to see commercials that stress the fact that for a four-door sedan, the car is sportier than most cars in its class, yet it offers incredible creature comfort and technology. When people ask me what is it like to drive the Mercedes, I say it is like sitting in a luxurious lounger that is strapped to a rocket. I get angry when I see the E-Class commercial on TV. I hate it. I get even angrier when I see Audi touting performance.

Updated on Oct 19, 2016

As a gearhead, I was very impressed by how much fun the E300 is to drive. The car is amazing, fast, energetic, and a total blast to drive. I race cars occasionally, and I restore old muscle cars for hobby. The E300 exceeded my expectations. I think Mercedes marketing need to do a better job conveying the message. I hate the E300 commercials because they make it look like an "Old Man's car." Normally, I would not pay them much attention, but I have such an emotional connection with new car that it makes me mad that the commercials do not do the car justice. This is a car guy dream. The car is pure automotive perfection! Don't be too humble Mercedes.

Originally Reviewed on Sep 13, 2016

I love the car. My only complaint is the voice command system is a bit slow. That said, now that I am able to use Apple CarPlay, I just use Siri, who is just awesome!

"One area you really did well was how to mesh self driving with manual driving at the same time"

Michael»GA»2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class|Purchased Dec 2016|Verified

I love the car. Since I was one of the first I knew I would have to pay full retail. With that in mind the sales experience was great. I love the car. Few little things: When you exit the car and the mobile phone is in the wireless charger you should warn the user. I would like more info in the headsup display. I know this one will resonate with your UX or human factors dept: You really blew it by not having touch screen. Even cheap cars have a better UX than Mercedes because of the touch screen!!! Being in high tech I can imagine there were several heated discussion around this and the wrong person won!
One area you really did well was how to mesh self driving with manual driving at the same time. I never really thought about this until I experienced it and the interface is perfect. The amount of work that went into the control of the steering wheel when a person is holding it during self driving must have been significant.
I owned the generation before this (2010 e350) and will own the next generation when I am sure you are full self drive simply because I love the car.

"They put a lot of new technology into the car, maybe too much, because It appears they sacrificed interior and exterior design ..."

Vincent»MA»2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class|Purchased Sep 2016|Verified

Very, very disappointed in the new 300 design. I have owned Mercedes for years, and part of the reasons for selecting Mercedes was because of brand prestige and luxury. This new model just feels and looks cheap compared to earlier designs.They put a lot of new technology into the car, maybe too much, because It appears they sacrificed interior and exterior design and overall luxury to keep the retail price down. It is not the typical Mercedes quality to which I have been accustomed. This model definitely does not turn heads!

"The only down side is the 4 cylinder engine and exterior styling that looks too much like a C-Class"

Gaetan»NJ»2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class|Purchased Aug 2016|Verified

The interior styling of the E300 is unbelievably gorgeous and, in my opinion, nicer than an S-Class. The only down side is the 4 cylinder engine and exterior styling that looks too much like a C-Class. If you're spending more than $60k on a vehicle, it should at least have 6 cylinders and more power than a car costing half as much.

"And a great experience buying it"

Mark»MA»2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class|Purchased Sep 2016|Verified

Wonderful car and experience overall. PLEASE put another 50hp into the motor. Your AMG version of the 2.0l 4 is 134hp stronger than my 241hp. It can be done. A spare and a jack is a must. I don't want to wait in the middle of nowhere if I shred a tire. Runflats are fine but only if you get a puncture in the tread. The 'macchiato' interior is OK. The brown accent is hideously ugly. Bring back a grey interior. Also, get rid of the clown face. My 2014 has a large spedo in the center with two smaller gauges on either side. I know I can change the gauge layout. But most of the layouts have two large dials, one on each side. The horn button looks like a clown nose. And lower potion of the steering wheel is the mouth. Once you have seen the clown face, you cannot un-see the clown face. Please add the night view assist from the S class as an extra cost option. And picking the smallest of nits, you could add ventilation to the MBTex seats. I prefer them and their durability to leather. Superb car overall. And a great experience buying it.

"Correct the windshield wiper problem or I will not entertain another Mercedes as a vehicle"

Mark»NC»2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class|Purchased Aug 2016|Verified

The windshield wipers on the E300 2017 are very poor and Mercedes knows about this but after months still has not resolved the problem or recalled the vehicles to fix the problem. Correct the windshield wiper problem or I will not entertain another Mercedes as a vehicle.

Originally Reviewed on Nov 18, 2016

I have had ongoing problems with the windowwiper which tug and do not clean smoothly.

Please keep certain safety feature standard at least for this model of Mercedes .
My previous car was some model and was 2 years older was equipped with technology that would alert you if you would drive to the lanes next to you by applying brake and showing you why that brake was applied but my new vehicle with newer technology lacks that feature .

"I don't like the fact that there is information on features that this car has outside of the US but they are not available in t..."

Willard»CA»2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class|Purchased Sep 2016|Verified

I expected more out of a 2017 E-Class transmission. This versions is fail. It has a very hard downshift ("chirps" the tires at times) and almost never uses the 9th gear which is part of selling point. I feel that the shift problem can not be solved without a deep rework which is something I don't like to have done on a brand new car of this class.

Originally Reviewed on Nov 4, 2016

I don't like the fact that there is information on features that this car has outside of the US but they are not available in the US such as the drivels parking. Everything you read says that the E300 has this but you don't find out that is not available in the US until you have the car purchased.

"I am certain that the make and model of the Mercedes I was driving helped keep me safe"

James»IN»2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class|Purchased Jul 2016|Verified

I was recently hit by a flying retreaded truck tire while driving on the interstate. The tire hit the hood and smashed the passenger front window. Luckily there was no one else in the car, and I was not injured. The damage to passenger side window did not spread to the drivers side. I am certain that the make and model of the Mercedes I was driving helped keep me safe. For that I, and my family, thank you!

"If you plug your phone in, it switches to your phone's NAV software, which is excellent and eliminates these shortcomings"

Joseph»WI»2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class|Purchased Aug 2016|Verified

Lane deviation software needs some fine tuning. Otherwise, AutoDrive is a great system that makes driving safer, particularly in traffic. The voice command works very well to find your destination on the NAV, but trying to type it in is not very good. It also lacks a lot of common locations like county parks in its library. If you plug your phone in, it switches to your phone's NAV software, which is excellent and eliminates these shortcomings.

Originally Reviewed on Oct 14, 2016

The navigation system is not very intuitive when it comes to punching in a destination. You can't find a simple state park on the search function. The is largely alleviated by plugging your phone in and switching over to your phone's mapping system.

"Love my car and all of its futuristic functionality though as with all things new it does have its flaws"

Darryl»FL»2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class|Purchased Jun 2016|Verified

The best and most technologically advanced automobile I have ever owned. Have been driving it for six months and still haven't realized all its potential.

Updated on Sep 17, 2016

Garage door opener would not connect when purchased. I love and always use the system that reads speed limit signs and automatically adjusts speed of car. That said, it is flawed in that it reads and adjusts for school zones wether or not they are active and occasionally reacts to off ramp signs while highway driving, particularly truck weigh stations. Other than that, I LOVE MY CAR!!!

Originally Reviewed on Jul 29, 2016

Love my car and all of its futuristic functionality though as with all things new it does have its flaws. Fortunately they are few and are far outweighed by everything else.

"Should have a spare tire and not run flats for the price of the car"

A safe choice will little upside and not enough power to be exciting to drive but OK. Should have a spare tire and not run flats for the price of the car. No excuse.

Originally Reviewed on Dec 9, 2016

Was lucky I could get a car with Distronics and without the light-up star - both are absurd. Love the large screen. In general, way over-engineered. Stupid stuff that removes driver control. I drive because I like to, not because I have to. I miss my AMG!

"That said, I am finding driving more fun and love the performance of the car"

Martin»CT»2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class|Purchased Jun 2016|Verified

The car is beautiful albeit a bit complicated with respect to electronic appointments. It's probably too complex for the non-techie individual. For some reason I am having a difficult time gauging the size and dimensions of the car from the driver's seat. The sight lines prevent me from seeing the absolute front of the car...That said, I am finding driving more fun and love the performance of the car.

"I'm use to the old ones, where reverse would be the first position down--sometimes I put it in drive"

Bruce»PA»2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class|Purchased Nov 2016|Verified

The only things about it I can critique would be the placement of the turn signal stalk directly above the cruise control stalk. You have to be conscious of which one you are grabbing. The other is the gear selector. I'm use to the old ones, where reverse would be the first position down--sometimes I put it in drive. These are just some things I had to get used to on it.

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